Starred review from November 29, 2010
In Australian author Taylor's dark and intricate fantasy debut, Arren Cardockson struggles to overcome prejudice against his northern heritage. In the southern countries of Cymria, where the aristocracy have sentient griffins for companions, northern "Blackrobes" are usually slaves. Arren was chosen by a griffin in childhood, much to the Cymrians' consternation, and since then he has risen through the ranks to become Master of Trade. When he incurs a debt while busting up a smuggling ring, Arren takes on a dangerous assignment from Lord Rannagon, the Master of Law, and heads south to trap a rare and violent wild black griffin. Arren returns to Eagleholm in disgrace and learns there are powerful forces working against him, and he forms a life-changing alliance to seek revenge. Taylor's complex world-building and bloody battle scenes will hook fans of both action and politics.